JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Rap artist Akeem Ali says fans attending his performance Wednesday night at Decca in Jacksonville can expect an energetic show filled with surprises and “wow factors.”
“You come to my show to be entertained, to be wild and like, ‘Oh, I didn’t expect that, but I’m glad I came,’” Ali said.
Ali is returning to Jacksonville after performing in the city last year. He said the support he received from local fans made the city feel like home.
“People were very genuine, very hospitable,” Ali said. “It just felt like I didn’t meet any strangers.”
Ali said he expects an even bigger response this time.
“I feel like I’ma get more,” he said. “It’s gonna be a lot more.”
For those unfamiliar with his music, Ali described his sound as “very unique” and “very niche.” He said his music includes nostalgic elements, poetic lyrics and smooth, sultry beats.
“It just feels kind of like poetry being spoken over nice, sultry music,” Ali said.
Ali also said his fashion, visuals and music are intentionally designed to push beyond the norm. He estimated that about 70% of his creative approach is intentional, while the rest comes from simply being himself.
“I’m trying to constantly find something that goes against or breaks the norm,” he said. “It is me, but then I’m also thinking, ‘What can I do to make this more?’”
Ali told fans to prepare for “a lot of fun moments” and unexpected moments during the show.
“Thank you guys for your support, for showing up, showing out,” Ali said. “Thank you for your time, your energy, your efforts, for rallying for me, backing me. We’re gonna have an amazing show tonight.”
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